Smart Snacking at Work: Beverages

by Molly Niendorf — August 29, 2008

I confess that I depend on Diet Coke a bit more than I should. By the time three o'clock rolls around, I'm ready for my caffeine fix. But I'm trying to cut back and branch out. There are some great, healthy drink options--many natural and caffeine free, others offering good nutrients in the form of calcium and fiber--and variety keeps my taste buds from boredom! Check out these beverages:

• Pomegranate Wildberry Light White Tea by Pom - Just 35 calories per 8 ounces, and white tea has anti-inflammatory effects and contains antioxidants. Definitely my favorite from this list! Delicious.
• Enviga - A sparkling green tea with just 5 calories that purports to speed up the calorie-burning process. It contains 20% of your daily calcium needs, but avoid it if you're not looking for a jolt of caffeine, as if contains as much caffeine as a strong cup of coffee. It's got a weird after-taste, but it did provide an afternoon burst of energy.
• Emergen C High Calcium Berry - Okay, this isn't exactly tasty, but I had to throw it in for its health benefits. Mixed with water, Emergen C tastes fizzy and a little bitter. It contains 1000 milligrams of Vitamin C, and taken regularly, prevents infections, bruising, colds & flu.
• Creamsicle Smoothie - If you've got a blender at work or if you work at home, this smoothie is a fabulous treat. You'll need: one navel orange, peeled; 1/4 cup fat-free yogurt; two tablespoons frozen orange juice concentrate; 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract; and four ice cubes. All in all, it's about 160 calories, 4g fiber, and 4g protein.